Camino Francés - Day 7: Estella to Sansol
I woke up excited for today’s walk—mainly because it would take me past the famous Fuente del Vino (Wine Fountain) at the Monastery of Irache. Few things motivate a pilgrim to start early quite like the promise of free wine on the trail! When I arrived, the fountain was quiet, its small spout offering a gentle trickle of red wine beside another of cold water. I poured just a small sip instead of a full cup, knowing there was only a limited supply each day, but the tradition itself felt special—a nod to the centuries of hospitality extended to pilgrims.
After that brief stop, I took the alternative route through Luquin instead of following the main road. It was a peaceful detour through quiet countryside and small stretches of forest, with barely another pilgrim in sight. The path rejoined the main Camino near Los Arcos, a small medieval town that appeared almost suddenly after a long stretch of open fields.
Originally, I’d planned to stop for the night in Los Arcos, but the available rooms were either fully booked or far too expensive. After a quick break and a short visit to the town’s Church of Santa María, an unexpectedly grand cathedral-like church filled with gilded altars and soft organ music, I decided to continue another 7 km to Sansol.
That last stretch was deceptively tough—the terrain was flat, but the distance felt endless. Sansol sat on a hill in the distance, visible for what felt like hours, never seeming to get any closer. By the time I finally reached it, I was both exhausted and elated. My albergue, Palacio de Sansol, turned out to be lovely—spacious, quiet, and welcoming. I dropped my pack, changed into sandals, and wandered to the nearby pub, where I rewarded myself with a slice of pistachio cheesecake. It was, without question, the highlight of the evening.
History & Background
This stage of the Camino Francés winds through Navarra’s wine country, a region long associated with vineyards and monastic hospitality. The Monastery of Irache, just outside Estella, dates back to the 8th century and once served as a hospital and resting place for pilgrims on their way to Santiago. Its Fuente del Vino—installed by the Irache Winery—has become one of the most iconic symbols of the Camino, embodying the generosity and spirit of the journey.
The towns along this route, including Los Arcos and Sansol, have deep medieval roots. Los Arcos, once fortified, served as a key stop for travellers and merchants, while Sansol, perched on a small ridge, offers sweeping views of the Ebro Valley and the neighbouring village of Torres del Río.
Getting There
The stage from Estella to Sansol covers just under 28 km along the Camino Francés, passing rolling farmland, open plains, and small villages. The route includes moderate elevation changes, making it a longer but rewarding day.
Walking is the traditional and most rewarding way to experience this stage, allowing pilgrims to enjoy the history, culture, and rural tranquillity of the area. For those needing an alternative, buses and taxis connect Estella, Los Arcos, and Sansol, providing flexibility while still reaching the next stop along the Camino.
Route Overview
Distance: 27.96 km (Agora Hostel → Palacio de Sansol)
Total elevation gain: 538 m
Duration: 5 hr 30 min (with breaks 6 hr 44 min)
Difficulty: Hard
Cost Breakdown
Accommodation: Palacio de Sansol (booked direct) — €16
Food: €21.70
